Mary Allen
Introduction: What are Kissing Bugs?
Kissing bugs, also known as triatomine bugs, are insects that belong to the Reduviidae family. They are commonly found in the Americas, including North, Central, and South America. These bugs are called kissing bugs because they often bite humans around the mouth or eyes while they sleep. Kissing bugs are known to transmit Chagas disease, a parasitic infection that can cause serious health problems in humans and animals.
Habitat and Distribution of Kissing Bugs
Kissing bugs are typically found in warm, humid regions, but they can also survive in dry areas. They prefer to live in cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and roofs of homes, animal shelters, and other structures. Kissing bugs are most commonly found in rural areas, but they can also be found in urban areas. They are prevalent in Central and South America, Mexico, and the southern United States. However, they have also been reported in other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.